A Luxurious Off-Road Marvel, Range Rover

The Range Rover, often seen as the epitome of a regal off-road vehicle, is instantly recognisable the world over. With its majestic presence and classic design, it's no wonder this iconic SUV has captured the hearts of many. While it may seem a tad outdated compared to its contemporaries like the Mercedes GLS or the BMW X7, the Range Rover's timeless elegance and premium materials exude a certain charm that is hard to resist.

Starting at just under £84,000, the Range Rover is far from a budget option. However, savvy shoppers can save over £4,000 by exploring deals from trusted dealers. Inside, the Range Rover's cabin is awash in luxurious leather, high-quality metallic finishes, and thoughtful design elements. The latest version also includes Jaguar Land Rover's most up-to-date technology, with three infotainment screens and a host of other creature comforts.

The entry-level model, dubbed the "Vogue," comes with keyless go, hands-free tailgate opening, and a premium Meridian sound system. Stepping up to the Vogue SE adds soft-close doors and off-road cruise control. Further up the ladder, the Autobiography model boasts 24-way adjustable electric seats with massage function, four-zone climate control, and adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping assist.

At the top of the range, the Autobiography Long Wheelbase offers even more space, unique rear seating, and a rear entertainment system. While the infotainment system is feature-packed, it can be a bit laggy and unintuitive at times. Thankfully, standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support provide alternative navigation options.

As for powertrains, the Range Rover offers two diesel engines, a hybrid version, and two petrol engine options. All models come with an automatic gearbox and all-wheel drive as standard. While not the most responsive, the gearbox is generally sufficient for most drivers.

The Range Rover excels on the motorway, offering a comfortable and quiet ride with excellent forward visibility. The suspension is smooth, and the steering is light, making it easy to manoeuvre the large vehicle. However, the turning circle leaves something to be desired, and parking such a large SUV can be a challenge.

On twisty roads, the Range Rover's steering can feel slow, and its considerable size means it's not the most nimble. However, the Range Rover is meant to be driven off-road, where it truly shines. In fact, it outperforms most other SUVs in off-road capabilities.

In conclusion, the Range Rover should be shortlisted for anyone seeking a luxurious SUV that can handle off-road adventures. While there are competitors with better driving dynamics and more advanced technology, the Range Rover's timeless appeal and undeniable charm make it a strong contender in the luxury SUV segment.